Veteran actor Michael Gough, a favourite of director Tim Burton and known for his role as butler Alfred in the Batman films, has died at the age of 94.

He was familiar to many movie-goers for roles in four films about the Dark Knight but also notched up appearances in shows such as Doctor Who, The Saint and the Avengers during his six-decade acting career.

He died at home with his family, his ex-wife Anneke Wills said through her agent.

Born in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Gough's first acting appearance was in the TV movie Androcles And The Lion in 1946.

He made many appearances in Hammer horror films including 1958's Dracula starring Christopher Lee.

Other notable Hollywood credits included The Boys From Brazil, Out Of Africa and The Age Of Innocence.

He appeared in Doctor Who in the 1960s opposite William Hartnell and later in the 1980s with the fifth Doctor, Peter Davison.

Gough's work with Burton saw him appearing in Sleepy Hollow and providing voices for films such as The Corpse Bride and Alice In Wonderland.

Other notable TV appearances have included roles in The Champions, Colditz and Blake's 7.